UCB turns in 7% sales growth for 2014

UCB has booked a 7% rise in sales to 3.3 billion euros for 2014, as generic competition to anti-epileptic Keppra (levetiracetam) and a dip in royalty income/fees was more than compensated for by strong performances across core medicines.

Delving deeper into the figures, the Belgian drugmaker said sales of Cimzia jumped 35% to 797 million euros, Vimpat climbed 15% to 471 million euros, and Neurpo grew 10% to 200 million euros.

This, alongside a 45% jump in ‘other revenue’ mainly due to payments from partners, Sanofi and European Investment Bank, helped push a 6% rise in gross profit to 2.91 billion euros, while recurring earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) was up 14% to 609 million euros.

Looking forward, UCB said it expects Cimzia, Vimpat and Neupro to drive an increase in group 2015 revenues to 3.55-3.65 billion euros, while recurring EBITDA should increase to 710-740 million euros.